Jones, who plans to enroll in January after graduating in December, said he considered Western Michigan and Ball State. Hazell, his coaching staff, the facilities and the school's aviation program eventually won his services. Jones aspires to become a pilot.

Despite the 1-11 record in Hazell's first season, Jones likes the direction.

"I like that they're pursuing the best recruits, not only in the state of Indiana, but the country," he said. "They already have a bunch of guys that have committed that I've met personally, like (quarterback) Elijah (Sindelar). I like those guys and I want to build up this great class with those guys and return Purdue football back to where it should be."

Featuring a mix of power and quickness, Jones rushed for 2,653 yards and scored 42 touchdowns to lead Columbus East to the Class 4A state championship last season. He averaged 10.5 yards a carry.

Florida offensive lineman Reche Thomas said he committed to Purdue on Sunday – which was later confirmed by Vero Beach High School coach Lenny Jankowski – but it appears Hazell and his staff aren't ready to accept his pledge. Thomas, though, remains on Purdue's radar.

West Lafayette lineman Peyton Truitt was offered by Hazell on Monday while attending camp at Illinois State with his high school teammates. Truitt committed to Miami (Ohio) in May, but the Purdue offer could sway the 6-foot-5, 285-pounder.